In a column sent to area publications on Sunday, the elder Apodaca said he contacted both candidates to talk about issues affecting the state.

"I never heard from Congresswoman Lujan-Grisham. I did receive a call from Congressman Pearce. I was surprised how open he was and how we agreed on about 80% of the issues that plague New Mexico," Apodaca wrote. "I found him to be straightforward and an honest man."

Apodaca, who served as governor from 1975-79, wrote that the current Democratic party leaders have abandoned bipartisanship and that he believes Pearce would be more willing to work across party lines.

Democratic Party of New Mexico chair Marg Elliston said Sunday that Jerry Apodaca’s endorsement is “sour grapes” on the part of Jeff Apodaca being defeated.

Jeff Apodaca has drawn criticism from some Democrats for recently attending a Pearce campaign event and shaking the Republican congressman’s hand.